MAYOR RECOGNIZES COLORADO SPRINGS YOUNG LEADERS

by LEE HARPER

At the 10th annual Mayor’s Young Leader Awards in November, Mayor Yemi Mobolade recognized seven individuals for making extraordinary efforts in their fields, while also positively impacting the Colorado Springs community.

Mayor Mobolade says, “These leaders drive change, inspire others, and embody the spirit of leadership; demonstrating that age is not a barrier to creating meaningful progress. I am grateful for their extraordinary leadership in Colorado Springs and for making our city an inclusive, culturally rich, economically prosperous, safe, and vibrant city on a hill that shines brightly.”

Launched in 2015, the award ceremony celebrates the outstanding achievements of professionals age 40 and under; the 2023 winners were selected from 30 finalists and are as follows:

Military Leaders Award: Sgt. Daryl Griffin | U.S. Space Force

Daryl Griffin is a dedicated Space Force leader who inspires and assists others, both within and beyond his military role. He excels in community contributions, volunteering as a Wildland firefighter and a high school football coach, as well as a mentor to athletes. Griffin demonstrates unwavering commitment to military duty and community service.

Technology &

Sustainability:

Matthew

Minneman | RainTech

Matthew Minneman strives to provide safe and secure technology to everyone, sharing his expertise at Tech for Less, the Broadmoor, and now as chief information security officer at RainTech. Minneman meets weekly with a variety of local business decision makers and publishes a free podcast to help achieve his goal of making cybersecurity possible for everyone.

Sports, Health, and Wellness: Connie Ryan | Journey Care Coordinating

In 2021, Ryan founded Journey Care Coordinating, LLC, committed to bridging critical gaps in elderly care. She initiated “Proactive Living,” a program which unites families, seniors, caregivers, and experts for vital conversations about aging and care options.

Education: Matt Radcliffe | Pikes Peak State College

Matt Radcliffe is an Eagle Scout and a Bronze Star recipient who is the executive director of marketing and communication at Pikes Peak State College. Radcliffe plays an integral part in empowering students to pursue their dreams and make their own positive impact on the world.

Creative Industry: Ashley Cornelius | Poet Laureate for the Pikes Peak Region

Ashley Cornelius is the Pikes Peak Region Poet Laureate and she is the youngest and first Black person to hold this title. As Poet Laureate, Cornelius creates free community events, like the annual Poetry Summit and the Global Poetry Experience, facilitates workshops in schools, and commissions poetry for community organizations.

Community Impact: Latisha Quintana | 4th Judicial District Court

Latisha Quintana, born and raised in Colorado Springs, has dedicated the past 17 years serving victims of interpersonal violence, youth in the juvenile justice system, and individuals with behavioral health needs. As the 4th Judicial Unified Problem Solving Court Coordinator for the past eight years, Quintana has forged invaluable partnerships, secured much-needed funding, and promoted the use of evidence-based practices for people living with complex behavioral health needs.

Economic Impact: Brianna Goodwin | Colorado Springs Sports Corp

Brianna Goodwin is chief development officer for Colorado Springs Sports Corporation. She leads all fundraising strategies that enable Sports Corp to support its mission; and brings to life some of this area’s largest events.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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